New Hope Railroad Requests Reflector and Paint Rule Extension

2026-15724, High-Speed Train Noise Emission Standards

This NPRM seeks to amend the noise emission regulations to address the unique noise emission characteristics of trains operating at speeds exceeding 160 miles per hour (mph). Specifically, the proposed regulation would provide an alternative standard for noise emissions from train operations exceeding 160 mph, up to 220 mph, and also provide a special approval process for noise emissions from train operations exceeding 220 mph. This alternative noise emission standard and compliance process would effectively remove an existing regulatory barrier to the railroad industry for high-speed rail operations, while continuing to protect public health and welfare. Existing noise emission limits for all train operations at speeds up to 160 mph would continue to apply, and these existing limits would remain available for demonstrating compliance at higher speeds as well.

2026-15605, Qualification and Certification of Locomotive Engineers and Conductors; English Language Proficiency and Other Requirements

FRA proposes to amend its regulations governing the qualification and certification of locomotive engineers and conductors to establish English language proficiency as a requirement for a railroad carrier to certify and recertify locomotive engineers and conductors. FRA also proposes that each railroad carrier conducting a triennial examination of skill performance, and an annual operational monitoring observation for locomotive engineers, which are current requirements, conduct those examinations and observations without engaging energy management systems that limit the need for a locomotive engineer to operate the throttle or braking systems. Further, FRA proposes to codify limitations on operations at the southern border, including a 10 route-mile geographic limitation, to ensure domestic training, testing, and certification requirements for Mexican crew members are adequate. In addition, FRA proposes changes to clarify that a locomotive engineer or conductor's territorial qualification is limited to the specific direction of travel traversed during the qualification process.

2026-14328, Notice of Petition for Waiver of Compliance

CSX Transportation asked the Federal Railroad Administration to let some of their long-haul trains run up to 1,785 miles before needing certain brake tests and inspections. This change affects trains on approved routes with special safety detectors and aims to keep safety strong while making operations smoother. People can share their thoughts on this by September 14, 2026.

2026-14324, Notice of Petition for Amendment of Waiver of Compliance

The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association wants to add 8 more railroads to a special rule that changes work-hour limits for train workers. This affects those railroads and their employees by allowing some flexibility in hours, with safety training included. The public can share their thoughts by September 14, 2026, before any decision is made.

2026-14161, Certification of Signal Employees; Extension of Comment Period

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is giving signal employees and their representatives more time to share their thoughts on a proposed rule change. This rule would cancel the current requirement for signal employees to be certified, which could affect how these workers are trained and checked. The comment period is now extended until August 13, 2026, so everyone can weigh in before any final decisions are made.

2026-13787, Proposed Agency Information Collection Activities; Comment Request

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is asking for your thoughts on a new paperwork plan they want to send to the Office of Management and Budget for approval. This affects anyone who deals with FRA’s info requests, but so far, no one has shared any comments. You’ve got until August 7, 2026, to speak up before the paperwork gets the green light, and there’s no expected cost change for those involved.

Previous: 2025-11090, Notice of Petition for Extension of Waiver of Compliance

Northern Central Railway of York (NCRA) asked for more time to skip some window safety rules on their trains. This means they want to keep using their current windows without changing them right away. If approved, this extension helps NCRA avoid extra costs and keeps their trains running smoothly for now.

Next: 2025-11092, Notice of Petition for Waiver of Compliance

Steamtown National Historic Site asked for a break from some rules about painting and adding reflectors on their rail cars. This change could help them save time and money while keeping things safe. If approved, it affects how they maintain their trains starting soon.